What type of stress does non-living pests include in relation to plants?

Non-living pests impose environmental stress on plants, which encompasses a range of factors that can negatively impact plant health and growth. This stress typically arises from abiotic elements such as extreme temperatures, drought, waterlogging, nutrient deficiencies, and pollution. These stressors can disrupt physiological processes within the plant, leading to reduced growth, yield, and overall vitality.

In contrast, the other types of stress, such as viral, fungal, and bacterial stress, are associated with living organisms that can cause diseases in plants. These pathogens interact directly with plant biology, often leading to specific symptoms or diseases. While they represent significant threats to plant health, they do not fall under the category of non-living pests, which primarily relate to environmental conditions rather than biological interactions. Thus, understanding the nature of environmental stress is crucial for effective plant management and resilience against abiotic challenges.